The Engineer's Orchestra I: Acoustics, Waves and Vibrations - provides an introduction to acoustics, waves, and vibrations via musical instruments. Students address the physics of orchestral instruments (winds, strings, and percussion) both qualitatively and quantitatively. Topics include one-dimensional transverse and longitudinal waves, traveling and standing wave solutions to the wave equation, and an introduction to spherical waves with relevant hands-on demonstrations. Modeling and analysis concepts will be introduced to support students in the design and construction of their own physical or virtual musical instruments.


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  • Ask -
  • Imagine -
  • Design, Build -
  • Improve -

That's engineering

Engineering ideas
  • acoustics, waves, vibrations, percussion, dimension, transverse, longitudinal, standing wave, modeling, analysis, concepts, design, construction, physical, virtual

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